-Willis McGahee was taking snaps on the sideline…..they looked like “Wildcat” formation snaps. No reason to read anything into that, but I thought I’d pass that along.
-Mark Clayton was fielding punts during Special Teams practice. He’s done that before, so there’s no reason to think Chris Carr won’t be the guy on Sunday.
-Mike Duffy (BaltimoreRavens.com) says Trevor Pryce DID practice today. I only watched a few minutes of practice today after talking to Bob Haynie; so I must have missed it. Of course, The Sun also reported that he didn’t. Duff has different rules for what he’s allowed to do as he is a team employee, but he’s also a good dude and has pretty good hair. So I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt on this one.

1:50-Troy Smith and Trevor Pryce were again missing from practice today. We’re assuming they’re dealing with the same flu bug that hit Jared Gaither last week-in which case they are likely quarantined. We’d ask, but…..well….you know the drill.

Noticed all of the guys who were limited yesterday in practice out there (Ray Lewis, Todd Heap, Tavares Gooden, Kelley Washington, Justin Bannan, Jarret Johnson); none are really concerns for Sunday.

1:21-I just used this one with Bob Haynie on AM1570 WNST, but I’ll go back to it. I found out earlier today that Demetrius Williams was playing the role of Randy Moss this week in practice, but I’d personally prefer that Demetrius Williams play the role of Demetrius Williams on the field for the Ravens.

1:06-DT Justin Bannan said he was feeling “fine” today, he was limited in practice yesterday with a knee injury.

12:49-I got ABOUT the response I expected to get regarding my thoughts on Steve Hauschka.

-Steve said he didn’t think kicking at Gillette Stadium would feel “too much different” from kicking at Middlebury College (where he kicked for 3 years before going to NC State-Middlebury is located in Vermont). He also grew up in Needham, Massachusetts, so the wind shouldn’t be anything new to him. He says he doesn’t know about Gillette Stadium specifically, but he’ll get a feel for the wind and the stadium’s open end during warmups.
-Special Teams Coordinator Jerry Rosburg immediately tried shooting down the significance of kicking at Gillette when I asked him about it; but eventually understood my points and said:

“The thing that we preach to all of our specialists is that when you go out on the field to kick, hold, punt, or snap; you’re really not concerned about all of that other stuff, it’s just about the ball.”
“It wouldn’t matter if it was at Middlebury or in Gillette Stadium, he’s gotta go out there and kick the ball. If he can stay in that frame of mind, I think he’ll be fine. Steve’s a strong young man physically, and more importantly he’s a strong young man mentally. He knows what he’s faced with, and I know going home it’s going to be a thrill for him, but when he steps on the field it’s all business.”

Worth noting, I spoke to a few people in and around the organization this morning about Hauschka. I think the general consensus is that this is definitely going to be Steve’s job all season-the Ravens likely won’t reevaluate until season’s end to determine if he needs competition against next year in Training Camp. But certainly an 0-2 or 1-3 day kicking would be enough to make some around the organization start thinking about sending a text to Matt Stover to see how he feels-even if it isn’t to have him come hang out at the complex for a day.

11:14-Back out here at 1 Winning Drive, where we are preparing to speak to the Ravens’ coordinators-Cam Cameron, Greg Mattison, and Jerry Rosburg.

I am looking forward to hearing Jerry Rosburg speak about Steve Hauschka kicking this Sunday at Gillette Stadium. Steve grew up in New England, so he is excited to kick against the Patriots. But this could also be a very big weekend for Steve’s young NFL career, as he will face his greatest adversity. A season ago, his own two field goal tries came in Baltimore and Houston (where Reliant Stadium is climate controlled and has a roof). This season, he has kicked in Baltimore and San Diego-where the only weather is good weather. In the preseason, he also kicked in Atlanta (dome) and Charlotte (mundane atmosphere, no weather issues.)

Sunday will be quite different. Steve will be kicking in front of a VERY hostile crowd in Foxborough, in a stadium with an open end. The weather is also expected to be cold and rainy; which means Steve could face a pressure kick late to beat a VERY good Patriots team in a situation he has never experienced before.

I don’t believe a missed kick in the 4th quarter would change how the Ravens feel about Steve Hauschka. An 0-3 day might. But a missed kick in the 4th quarter COULD change the perception of Steve Hauschka amongst Ravens fans.

-G

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If you think of a witty moniker for this game, there’s a real good chance someone else has already thought of it, and posted it – ON THESE MESSAGE BOARDS. Indeed, the week leading up to a big game is every bit as contentious as the 60 minutes spent on the field.

But, all the hoopla just fuels the collective fires burning within rabid fans of both teams.

In reality, we know what this is really about …..

It’s just another football game. It’s the Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots – a couple non-divisional opponents meeting for a regular season contest. Both teams have games the following week – and they’re equally as important. Or, are they?

In looking at both teams, if I’m going to consider any comparisons, I’m likely to point out that both organizations obsess on the TEAM concept. This town and anyone who follows the Ravens are familiar with John Harbaugh’s devotion to team unity.

And, Bill Belichick has amassed a collection of Lombardi trophies and gaudy rings by beating opponents with larger collections of “stars” on the game’s biggest stage. We can name dozens of reclamation projects utilized and optimized by Belichick, right?

Well, it’s also legitimate to admit Tom Brady has been the consistent factor on the team, as well.

The Patriots have dominated the last decade on a “next man up” philosophy. Obviously, the Ravens have that same mindset – and we’ve observed textbook examples, with Justin Bannan, Chris Chester and others. In fact, both Tom Brady and Joe Flacco were cast into their current roles through unexpected circumstances and at unplanned times.

And, the world knows neither guy let the opportunity or job title slip away …..

But, Sunday’s game is not about the legend of Tom Brady, or the emergence of Joe Flacco. Although, that’s what the cookie-cutter networks will say in their coverage. Pimping the quarterbacks has always been that “sexy selling point” with national, mainstream analysis.

I’m not suggesting Brady or Flacco will be mere bystanders to Sunday’s eventual outcome. Both guys are leaders and they’ll intimately impact what happens – as every quarterback does. But, will they have any greater effect than other Week #4 matchups, like Roethlisberger vs. Rivers, Sanchez vs. Brees or the most overblown duel, Brett Favre vs. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers & ENTIRE STATE OF WISCONSIN.

Good grief, I’ll be glad when that game is over. But, you know what I mean – the nationally syndicated media will market the quarterbacks. However, we know it’s much more complex than that.

This Ravens/Patriots game is bound to be determined by more relevant matchups and scenarios …..

• Can the Ravens Defense pressure the Patriots into hurried execution and a repeat of the unpleasant circumstances similar to that day at the Meadowlands, a couple weeks ago?

• Will the Patriots Defense finally do something the Chiefs, Chargers and Browns failed to accomplish – STOP the Ravens passing attack, which really enables the running game? They’ll have the home crowd to their advantage.

• Aside from the presence of Randy Moss, can the Patriots present difficult matchups for the Ravens secondary? Be cautious of the Patriots’ Tight Ends; they’re big and offer another option for Brady.

• Do “Blueprints For Success” exist for both teams? Specifically, did Philip Rivers reveal the Ravens vulnerabilities? And, did Rex Ryan’s Jets-D lay a similar plan for his former pupils?

• Has Prescott Burgess been spending hours under a bright light, in Coach Belichick’s office? Get the Velveeta ready …..

• Perhaps, it will come down to Steve Hauschka vs. Stephen Gostkowski. Just remember, the Ravens’ new kicker hasn’t really stepped into a “do or die” situation, yet. It’s coming …..

In a similar standard to the San Diego game, this contest could serve as a tie-breaker for postseason homefield, and it could also lead to an extended lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers, who will really face a tough challenge, against the Chargers, in another game without Troy Polamalu.

To be fair, this game has important intangible factors, as well. The Patriots have a collection of Super Bowl Championships, over the past ten years. Beating them has gotta be significant for a team’s confidence. They’re also one of those upper echelon teams and the Ravens need to beat such opponents, if they wanna go to Miami, in February.

In fact, it’s absolutely fitting to suggest the New England Patriots demand that same reverence as the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants and Indianapolis Colts. And, do these 4 teams share a common relation with the Ravens?

You bet.

The Steelers, Colts, Patriots and Giants are jointly responsible for winning the past 6 Super Bowls. In the span of the last 24 months, the Ravens have played this collection of teams 10 times.

The Ravens are 1-9 against them. Did you get that? I said ONE WIN & NINE LOSSES.

This has to change. Forget about beating the bad teams. And, forget about beating the good teams. The Ravens absolutely MUST beat the GREAT TEAMS.

The ESPN Power Rankings, Sporting News Ratings and other in-season accolades are nice. But, there are no real awards for such distinctions. The prize is coveted by every NFL team, and it’s a Super Bowl Championship.

The teams responsible for the last half-dozen trips to Disney World have dominated the Ravens. The tables must turn. Maybe, Ric Flair was right – “to be the man, you gotta beat the man.”

2:31-There was apparently a random construction guy with binoculars trying to watch practice through the fence here at 1 Winning Drive. He was a construction worker working on a neighbor’s house. We can not confirm rumors that he was a construction worker hired by the head coach of the New England Patriots…..

2:27-We got a lot of “dry” answers out here today….as if the players on this team had been studying at the John Harbaugh school of talking to the media. The good news is that if the players aren’t being overly interesting, we can assume that business is usual for this team.

Hey, it bothers me as a guy who has to cover the team; but I certainly don’t mind it as a fan of the team.

2:23-The other concussion was Tavares Gooden, who was apparently also hit by Haloti Ngata. Gooden doesn’t believe it will affect his status for Sunday in Foxborough.

Ray Lewis was fully dressed for practice.

2:03-Fabian Washington brings a unique perspective to facing Randy Moss on Sunday, as they were teammates previously in Oakland. “I know a lot about Randy…..I covered him every day in practice. I offered our corners a LOT of information.” When asked about how to counter the jump ball ability of an already 6’4″ wide receiver, Fabian said “you gotta do something”, then suggested corners try to hit Moss’s arms in those situations.

He also added that the difference between the Patriots and the matchup with the Chargers two weeks ago is that “There’s only one Moss” in New England, whereas San Diego had multiple receivers in the range of 6’6″.

1:49-Some notes from Bill Belichick’s conference call this morning with the Baltimore media:

-Prescott Burgess has returned to the Patriots, now on their practice squad. Belichick reminded us that the Patriots did not trade for Burgess only to get secrets about the Ravens.
-Adalius Thomas has been “a very versatile performer” for the Patriots, especially with Jerod Mayo banged up.
-Belichick thinks Ravens “good in every phase of the game.”
-He thinks John Harbaugh “has done a good job.” He said that he has a good relationship with Harbs dating back to John’s time as Special Teams Coordinator with the Eagles.
-He believes the Ravens “have outstanding players across the board” offensively.
-He thinks Joe Flacco “has done a really good job”, reminding that “his record speaks for that.”

1:30-There were mixed reactions when players were asked about the 2007 loss to the Patriots at M&T Bank Stadium (you remember, the one with Rex Ryan’s timeout); they had a mixed reaction.

-Derrick Mason claimed to have drawn a “mind blank”, followed by “next question”, and reminded us that they were “totally different teams.”
-Terrell Suggs: “I just remember the disappointment and the heartache.”
-Todd Heap (who didn’t play in the game): “We had them on the ropes……but that was years ago. We won’t be thinking about that going into this week for sure.”

1:20-It was an “Admiration Society” today as Ravens players were asked about the Pats-

-John Harbaugh: “Fred Taylor is a premiere back in this league. We’ve got to do a great job of keeping him in leverage at all times.”
-Joe Flacco: “They’re a good team…we expect their best.” New England defense “looks pretty good to me.” Tom Brady “has done a great job and won many Super Bowls.”
-Ray Lewis: “Fred (Taylor) has always been one of those backs that you really gotta keep a hold on. If you don’t, he can really hurt you in the run game.”
-Derrick Mason: “Tom (Brady) is one of the best in the game.” Mase also compared them to teams like the Yankees, Red Wings, Celtics, and Lakers.
-Willis McGahee on Vince Wilfork: “He’s a beast. He’s one of those guys you wanna watch out for, he can control the run game if you let him.”
-Domonique Foxworth on Randy Moss: “We’re quite aware of what he’s capable of and what he’s been able to do throughout his career.”

12:50-LB Brendon Ayanbadejo was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. When asked about winning the award he said:

“For me, it’s a testament to my teammates and my coaches. They do all the hard work, I just go in there and do what I’m told to do and I play football.”

On winning the award from the defensive side of the ball when he is known better as a Special Teams player:

“I’m just proud to be a Raven. Just to be a part of this team and to be able to contribute, I wanted to be more than just a guy who’s out there. There’s guys that contribute and there’s guys who make a difference, and this year my goal was to make a difference.”

12:27-The most interesting note from today’s session with the players was when Ray Lewis was asked if he returned to Sunday’s game against Cleveland one play later “with a concussion”, Lewis responded:

“If it’s gonna exist, it’s gonna exist. You can sit out 5 or 6 plays, or you can come back (after) one. My symptoms, what I was having I was gonna have the rest of the day anyway, so I just dealt with them. I wasn’t comfortable enough sitting on the sidelines 5 or 6 plays, why not go back out there and fight with my team.”

My guess is that Ray had suffered concussion-like symptoms. I cannot FATHOM this organization allowing Ray to play through a true concussion. John Harbaugh declined to comment on the “concussed”, deferring to the injury report that will be out this afternoon following practice.

10:52-Greetings from 1 Winning Drive, where the New England Patriots are the focus for the 3-0 Baltimore Ravens as they get back to work. Bill Belichick is scheduled for a conference call with the local media at 11:15, and we are expected to talk to John Harbaugh at 11:30, followed by a number of players.

The only question for today is which players was John Harbaugh referring to Monday afternoon in his weekly press conference when he addressed “new concussions” for the team? The only injury we knew of from Sunday’s win over the Browns was a shoulder stinger for Ray Lewis. Hopefully we’ll get some more answers today, maybe even BEFORE the injury report is released this afternoon!

-G

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It is entirely too early to proclaim that a team has a legitimate chance of winning a Super Bowl. Three weeks into the season, there is way too much that can happen that can change the entire course of a year.

But through three games, my preseason thought that the Ravens were good enough to get in has given way to the idea that the Ravens might just be good enough to win it all.

There’s one big reason for my change in opinion. Actually, there’s five VERY big reasons for my change in opinion.

The Offensive Line of the Baltimore Ravens-through three games-looks like the type of unit that wins Championships.

Joe Flacco has been sacked THREE times this season.
The Ravens have ran for 470 yards on a 4.7 yards per carry clip.
Through three games, the Ravens have a total of 82 first downs.

These are the types of numbers that come with having a good quarterback, solid receivers, and a steady ground game. But they are also the types of numbers that come from a team that is getting such a push upfront that the offensive success feels absolutely commonplace.

In fact, when offensive players are asked about their success at this point, they almost blush, saying things like “we’re just clicking” (Willis McGahee) and “as long as we keep playing like this, we’re gonna be tough to beat this year.” (Joe Flacco)

The offensive line of this team has been so good that it is hard to even notice the unit is on the field. Matt Birk has made exactly one mistake (a fumbled exchange with Flacco against San Diego). Michael Oher and Jared Gaither have each been penalized ONCE. Even the guards (Ben Grubbs, Chris Chester and Marshal Yanda) have created holes so big Jonathan Ogden could run through them.

Facing the Browns, the Offensive Line limited Browns all-word DT Shaun Rogers to 3 tackles and frustrated him into an unnecessary roughness penalty in the 2nd half. They also cleared the way for Willis McGahee and Ray Rice to combine for three TD’s on the ground where they were COMPLETELY untouched. McGahee couldn’t help but laugh at the idea of going into the endzone untouched, saying “it feels good.”

The Ravens haven’t faced the best defenses in the NFL. The Patriots will provide another unique test for this Offensive Line next week in Foxborough. However, if this unit plays this good and stays healthy this season, it seems VERY apparent that they are good enough that a trip to Miami is an honest possibility.

-G

5:27-You can check the final stats from today’s game here. Joe Flacco finished the day with a new career high 342 yards passing. The Ravens extended their streak of not allowing a 100 yard rusher to 38 games.

5:04-You can hear from the following NOW in the Audio Vault at WNST.net:

5:00-The only injury note to pass along following the Ravens’ win today is regarding Ray Lewis. John Harbaugh said Ray suffered a “stinger” (as I had guessed) to the shoulder. No real cause for concern.

Ray Rice told me he will have the football framed from his 1st career TD, and he will put it “in (his) bedroom……right next to (him).”

Derrick Mason said his 800th career catch “meant a lot”, but admitted that the Ravens “really don’t make a big deal about” personal milestones.

3:45-I’m not gonna wait. This one’s over. Ravens win 34-3. I’m headed downstairs. Will talk to you shortly. Nice play by Lardarius Webb on the punt.

3:38-Who the hell was Derek Anderson throwing the ball to there?

3:34-Doesn’t usually take until Week 3 for Ed Reed to get into the INT column; but it’s good to see him.

This one will look like a preseason game the rest of the way. Troy Smith under center, Matt “Jack Hunter” Lawrence toting the rock.

3:31-Jameel McClain deserved the chance to dance a little bit after rocking Josh Cribbs. A tip of the hat to Edgar Jones for tackling Cribbs to allow McClain to offer the punishment.

3:28-That one might be a little bit of “running up the score.” Oh well. I’ll be happy for Derrick Mason on his big day. Ravens up 31 with 8:05 to play in this one.

3:26-Do Ravens defensive players know they don’t HAVE to lateral the ball on every play? Congratulations to Dawan Landry for the pick……probably the easiest he’ll ever make.

3:20-Don’t think Joe Flacco should still be in the game, but I’m also not a coach in the NFL. True story.

3:13-Apparently Willis McGahee did NOT want to lock up the #1 Spot on this week’s “Tuesday Top 7.”

3:12-Shaun Rogers is frustrated. If I was Shaun Rogers, I’d probably be frustrated too.

3:07-What type of grade would you give Chris Carr thus far this season? He hasn’t been great, that’s for sure. But has he been bad? I don’t think so.

3:06-Cundiff ends the shutout; and the Browns get on the board. Maybe we could see Troy Smith this quarter?

3:03-Mangini kicking the FG to open the 4th? He should be ashamed. But this should allow the Ravens to consider going to the bench this quarter if Cundiff can snap the shutout.

2:56-Ed Reed tried to time that hit for the right moment, but clearly was way too early. If that was a first quarter hit, I would have said “he sent a message” to the Browns’ wide receivers. But I think they already got the message.

If Eric Mangini kicks a field goal on this drive, he has no balls. There, I said it.

2:52-What a hell of a pass and catch from Derek Anderson to Mike Furrey there. Best thing they’ll do all day.

2:51-Justin Bannan just BLEW UP Lawrence Vickers in the backfield. Should the Browns think about just taking a knee?

2:50-A Santana Moss TD and we’re breathing heavily again. With no offense to everyone who is still interested in what is happening on the field with the Ravens and Browns-I have great interest in seeing Redskins fans suffer.

2:47-Nice call, Drew.

2:45-Ray’s gonna really burn me after this today. Rutgers beat Maryland AND he scored his first TD? Now how do I mess with him???

4 plays, 53 yards, 1:54 on the Ravens’ 5th scoring drive of the day. The hits just keep on coming.

2:43-One man shouldn’t do that to another. Willis is just embarrassing those guys. Come on now….

2:38-Brendon Ayanbadejo with the game of his life. I have not said to Drew “nice call” yet, but I get the feeling it is coming…

2:36-2 TD throws for Kyle Boller today in St. Louis. The Rams still trail the Packers 23-14. I always root for Kyle “Don’t Call It A Comeback” Boller myself.

2:35-Derek Anderson into the game……no word if Brady Quinn went to Eric Mangini at the half and said “no mas.”

2:31-Forrester thinks we should have left at halftime to go down and see Darius Rucker at Merriweather. I’m not REALL convinced we would have missed anything.

2:11-70,950 here today-I’ve noticed a few empty seats around the stadium and can’t blame anyone who decided they would spend their day somewhere else.

2:10-Willis McGahee also doens’t have much to worry about in the “getting your uniform dirty” department. That is just downright unfair.

8 plays, 80 yards, 2:31 on the 4th scoring drive of the half.

2:08-Lions go up 10-0 in Detroit. I have a bad feeling I will be more interested in this in the 2nd half than I am in the game I am attending.

2:06-Standing ovation at “The Bank” as Mason is recognized during the 2 minute warning. Well deserved for the greatest receiver in franchise history.

2:02-A veteran member of the media just asked me if there’s anything the Ravens haven’t done well today. I didn’t have an answer. I guess they could have scored 3 touchdowns.

Derrick Mason with his 800th catch for his career. They’re REALLY gonna be in a tough spot with him when it comes to the Ring of Honor here.

1:53-What Ray Rice did there is almost unfair to those guys in white and orange. They’re trying, even if you can’t tell.

I think Harbaugh should have gone for it again there. Why not put this one away when you have the chance early? There’s no doubt in my mind the O-Line would have gotten the push to get 2 yards.

Hauschka’s 2nd kick still means this is a 2 possession game-which will keep everyone in the stands a bit longer.

16 plays, 82 yards, 7:34 on the 3rd scoring drive of the day for the Ravens. Sam Koch is hanging out with Demetrius somewhere.

1:50-If anyone sees Demetrius Williams today, please let him know kickoff was at 1. Meanwhile, Kelley Washington continues to look like one of the greatest free agent acquisitions in team history.

1:48-Is Rex Ryan going to go undefeated? The Jets are up 14-0 in the 2nd on the Titans. Glad I picked the Titans to make the playoffs……

1:43-Could Willis McGahee be earning back the “starting” RB job? He’s ran hard as hell every time he’s touched the ball.

Ed-I think coverage in general has been BETTER-but certainly could still improve a bit. That’s a bit of a panic penalty on Walker there, but given the spot on the field; that’s probably one that they won’t lose their mind about.

1:39-Attention Brady Quinn: It isn’t usually protocol to throw the ball away when you’re NOT flushed. He had plenty of time there.

Frank Walker was called for a hold there. Most of the city of Baltimore will want him released.

Lions up 7-0 on the Skins. GOD PLEASE LET THIS HAPPEN.

1:38-Ed Reed had to go low to make that saving tackle on Jerome Harrison there. As I said, the Browns HAVE to try to run the ball. Losing teams throw on every down. It felt like some fans forgot that the Chargers were a losing team last week.

1:35-Can you call a game an absolute blowout if it’s only a 10-0 game through one quarter? This would be that game if you could.

Nice play by Dwan Edwards there, by the way. I don’t get to say that enough. And Edgar Jones made a nice play on coverage as well.

1:28-Watching Kamerion Wimbley sack Joe Flacco (on a play where Flacco had plenty of time), I can’t help but remember the Draft that lead Haloti Ngata to Baltimore. Not that Wimbley hasn’t turned into a nice player for the Browns, but I think the Ravens are pretty happy with Ngata.

12 plays, 68 yards, 6:03 on the scoring drive-capped by Hauschka’s 36 yard field goal. It’s 10-0 here. Rich Dubroff (or Carroll County Times fame) nailed the time of possession on that one. He’s also provided me a few one-liners today. With him on my right and ol’ Forrester on my left; it could be a real zinger-fest.

1:27 Flacco hasn’t had AS MUCH time in the pocket today as he’s had in the first two games, but he’s had MORE than enough. This offensive line makes this team a Super Bowl contender.

1:24-Brandon McDonald should have made that play on the jump ball to Derrick Mason. That is the only area where the Ravens are behind the 8 ball-as they ABSOLUTELY lack tall wide receivers-and no, neither Brandon Marshall nor Anquan Boldin is coming through that door.

1:21-Drew says Zastudil is Browns’ MVP thus far. He’s probably right about that, too. Le’Ron McClain with some hard running after his catch; and it is nice to see LJ Smith make an appearance. Say what you want about Smith’s health, he IS capable of catching the ball.

1:18-I guess if Joe Thomas does it, it isn’t considered holding. Spencer Folau was freaking out on the play where Ayanbadejo got the sack-SCREAMING for the hold call. Funny stuff.

1:15-Where were fewer people breathing? Last night in Lexington when Tim Tebow got hit, or a minute ago here when Ray Lewis stayed down?

Ray’s fine.

1:11-6 plays, 31 yards, 2:01 on that first TD drive. The Offensive Line might not have broken a sweat, either.

1:09-ABSOLUTELY the right decision by Cam Cameron and John Harbaugh to go for it on 4th and 1 there.

With Willis McGahee getting into the endzone, I remind everyone that Ray Rice is still yet to get one himself. (Love you Ray.)

1:07-Flacco did the right thing in getting to the line of scrimmage quickly after Mark Clayton’s catch. I was afraid the Browns’ PR staff was actually going to throw the red flag from all the way up here.

1:05-No word on whether or not Domonique Foxworth yelled “Still think we can’t play?” towards Mike Preston after making that pick.

1:04-Brady Quinn comes out throwing. He’ll have success (including an early first down), but the Browns will NOT be able to pull off an upset without running the ball. And with no offense to Jerome Harrison and James Davis…….

1:03-Josh Cribbs is particularly dangerous every time he touches the ball. Jerry Rosburg admitted that there is little he can do to slow down the Browns’ speedy returner on kickoffs. Ravens just have to maintain their gaps and can’t allow him to break tackles.

1:00-Browns won the toss, they’ll take the ball. Unfortunately, I’m not sure they can hold for the entire 60 minutes though…

12:55-Starting offense introduced this week after defense was introduced before home opener against Chiefs. Particularly loud ovations for Oher, Ray Rice, Todd Heap, Derrick Mason, and Joe Flacco. It isn’t quite as electric without a Ray Lewis dance, though.

12:52-I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the fact that the Ravens serve Nantucket Nectars Premium Orange in the Press Box before games. They don’t advertise with us, but their product is OUTSTANDING.

12:29-I have two friends from Texas in town this weekend. One of them just texted me to say “I’m pretty sure I’m the only person in downtown Baltimore not wearing purple.”

Awesome.

12:16-Jerome Harrison is starting for the Browns in place of Jamal Lewis. Hank Fraley is starting in place of Floyd Womack, meaning the Browns DID err in listing him as inactive. Rex Hadnot was the player that should have been listed as inactive.

This means LJ Smith WILL dress for the first time as a Raven, and the team will have 3 active Tight Ends. It will be interesting to see if LJ contributes at all on Special Teams.

12:10-I get the feeling the Browns mistakenly listed Hank Fraley as inactive when Rex Hadnot was supposed to be. The word was that Hadnot wasn’t even traveling.

12:01-Did anyone see the shot of Rex Ryan walking into Giants Stadium today? Brian Billick would have lost his mind. Rex looked more homeless than even I usually do! Just noticed Rob Ryan (now the Browns Defensive Coordinator) down on the field here at “The Bank”, and he looks EXACTLY the same as you remember him from Oakland.

11:55-There’s a rumor being passed around that Paul Kruger is inactive again today. As I just told Chris Bonetti and Jason Jubb, I did not expect him to be active this week despite the fact that the Ravens let go of Prescott Burgess Tuesday. A reminder that Tom Zbikowski was NOT active last week and will be today. Jarret Johnson is the only REAL injury question mark; but he’s also one of the toughest guys on the team, so I bet he’s dressed.

11:53-Ravens in purple tops and white pants-they’re expected to wear purple until the final home game of the season. Browns in white tops and brown pants.

11:50-From the Cleveland Browns’ official Twitter page, here are their scratches:

11:15-The Ravens are 13-7 all-time against the Browns; including a sweep of the Brownies last season. They are 7-3 all-time against the Browns here in Baltimore.

10:40-As I noted yesterday, 4 Browns aren’t here in Charm City-as Jamal Lewis, Phil Dawson, Rex Hadnot and Floyd Womack are already OUT according to Mike Florio at ProFootballTalk.com. Billy Cundiff was signed by the Browns to kick. Former Raven Cedric Peerman was waived to make room for Cundiff.

10:30-Greetings from the Press Box here at M&T Bank Stadium in beautiful downtown Baltimore; where the Ravens put their 2-0 record on the line in their first AFC North contest of the year against the 0-2 Cleveland Browns. The Ravens have started a season 3-0 only once in their history-2006, when they went on to finish with the 2nd best record in the AFC.

Today’s game can be seen on CBS, the great Gus Johnson and Steve Tasker are on the call. According to The Weather Channel, it will be 71 degrees and mostly sunny today at 1pm; with just a 10% chance of precipitation.

Drew Forrester will be manning the WNST Twitter account today (@WNST), with Nestor Aparicio, Chris Pika, Luke Jones and myself chiming in. Don’t forget about our “Purple Haze” live chat tonight at 7 on WNST.net, where we’ll break down everything about today’s game and the other NFL action.

-G

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1:49-A couple of notes from personal conversations with players today. I spoke with LJ Smith-who still appeared uncertain of whether he will play on Sunday. I get the feeling this is no longer really about his hamstring, but more about whether or not he would be able to contribute on Special Teams. There is an active spot available right now after Prescott Burgess was traded Tuesday; but Tom Zbikowski was inactive against the Chargers and will almost certainly be back Sunday. Tony Curtis, Paul Kruger, and Dannell Ellerbe might all be options to dress Sunday, depending on how game-ready Ellerbe is, how quickly Tony Curtis has put things together, and how much Paul Kruger has developed on the Special Teams side of the ball. LJ Smith might well be on the field; but my conversation with him lead me to believe it was not certain.

Also, my friend Jon Gallo of CBS Sports passed along a note he got from a personal conversation with kicker Steve Hauschka. Apparently Hauschka, ST Coordinator Jerry Rosburg, Sam Koch, and Matt Katula went to M&T Bank Stadium to work on kicking yesterday instead of staying here at 1 Winning Drive for practice. Rosburg talked before the San Diego game about the significance of Hauschka understanding his home stadium better than any kicker in the NFL; especially after the wind caused the 2nd year player from NC State to push a 41 yard field goal against the Chiefs. Cleveland kicker Phil Dawson would almost certainly be more familiar at M&T Bank Stadium (especially the stanchion), so this was a good chance for Hauschka to improve his familiarity.

1:43-Regarding injuries; John Harbaugh said Jared Gaither missed the last two days because the rest of the team “didn’t wanna get sick.” He didn’t try to break down any more of Gaither’s illness, reminding reporters that he isn’t a doctor-which is true. Harbs wasn’t so convinced about Jarrett Johnson-as despite the fact that JJ got back out on the practice field this morning, the Coach (who celebrated a birthday this week) said “that’s still gonna be an issue.” It appears as though Ed Reed missing practice was nothing more than a precautionary measure given Ed’s lingering shoulder and neck issues.

When asked about the significance of playing their first AFC North opponent Sunday, Harbaugh reminded us that AFC North games have potential “tiebreaker implications”, meaning the games can be more valuable than any other individual games. Harbaugh also said of the Browns “they have every intention of putting it together on Sunday.”

11:47-Ed Reed is not dressed for practice today. He just came out to the practice field in street clothes. With Ed’s chronic shoulder and neck issues, this could be nothing more than a precautionary day off. Hopefully Harbs will give us an explanation.

11:35-A quick update from the practice field. Both Jared Gaither (illness) and Jarret Johnson (shouler) were out on the field this morning. Gaither appeared to be a little bit less than a full go during O-Line workouts, and could be listed as “limited” today as he continues to work back from the flu bug that got him this week. Johnson was seen sprinting off the practice field to head back to the locker room at one point. We’ll find out more details of his recovery shortly.

10:57-We’re back out here at 1 Winning Drive, where the Ravens will hold a walkthrough today as they install the final elements of their gameplan for Sunday’s game against Cleveland. Jarret Johnson (shoulder), Jared Gaither (illness) and Justin Bannan (knee) are the only concerns injury-wise; but all 3 are believed to be fine to go for Sunday. Gaither and Johnson have not practiced for the last 2 days, Bannan has been limited.

We will be headed out to view practice here shortly, and we will hear from John Harbaugh this afternoon-around 1pm or so.

Ralph Friedgen is not going to be fired. James Franklin will be the next head coach.

They have a contract that stipulates that. The country, the state, and the school are all in a recession. I don’t think Ralph Friedgen SHOULD be fired, but the poin I’m trying to make is that it doesn’t matter. He’s not going to be.
James Franklin will be the next head coach unless James Franklin decides not to be (or something particularly crazy happens).

2:51-Tuesday is former Ravens LB O.J. Brigance’s 40th birthday. When asked about what O.J. means to this Ravens team, John Harbaugh said “OJ is the core….of the spirit of the football team.”

As I mentioned this morning in Crabs & Beer, please head to bcf.org to purchase tickets for Tuesday night’s “2 Rings for O.J.” event at M&T Bank Stadium. WNST is NOT affiliated with the event, but we are FULLY supportive of O.J.

2:49-OT Jared Gaither and LB Jarret Johnson were also absent from the part of practice open to the media. We will await further word when the injury report is released this afternoon.

2:32-Brady Quinn is meeting with the media right now. Here are some highlights:

-Quinn believes the “biggest” thing the Browns have to do moving forward is “correct (their) mistakes.”
-on how difficult the 2-0 Ravens will be: “this will be an uphill battle.”
-on how he’s played so far this season: “not the way I’ve liked to.”
-on whether a change in systems has affected how he’s played in ’09: “We’re not going to make any excuses” for our struggles
-on Browns: “We have a lot of confidence as a team in our ability. We know when we play well, we’re as good as anyone.”
-Quinn also believes the Ravens will try to force HIM to beat them, but the Browns cannot afford to abandon the run.

2:29-Coach Harbaugh and the guys on the offensive side of the ball all commented on the fact that that they’re sure they’ll see some similarities between Cleveland’s defensive coordinator Rob Ryan’s scheme and that of their own former d-coordinator, Rex Ryan, his twin brother. Sons of Buddy Ryan, who master-minded the “46” defense of the Chicago Bears in the mid-1980’s, both Rob and Rex’s defenses heavily showcase the pass rush and multiple disguised formations used to confuse opposing QB’s at the line. Joe Flacco added, “they’re gonna try to mix things up on 3rd down.”

1:55-Coach Harbaugh also noted he believes that between former Raven Dave Zastudil punting, 11-year veteran Phil Dawson place-kicking, and the electrifying Josh Cribbs returning punts and kicks, the Browns stack up favorably with any team in the league in terms of specialists. Coming from a former long-time special steams coordinator in the league, that should really say something. Special teams play helped Kansas City stay close until the 4th quarter against the Ravens in the opener… if Cleveland is to have any chance that late on Sunday, that trio will have likely played a large role.

1:40-In his post-morning practice meeting with the media Coach Harbaugh was somewhat candid when asked about the playing status of L.J. Smith and yesterday’s signing of free agent TE Tony Curtis. He said it’s “no mystery” that Curtis was brought in for depth and insurance at the position and that it’s still in doubt whether or not Smith’s sore hamstring will be enable him to suit up Sunday against Cleveland.

1:31-I am joining Bob Haynie momentarily. Chris Bonetti (from the “Mobtown Sports Beat”) is here with me, and is going to jump on and throw up a thought or two. Also, head over to the Audio Vault at WNST.net right now to hear from:

S Tom Zbikowski (concussion) and TE LJ Smith (hamstring) were both practicing
CB Fabian Washington (concussion) was not seen during the part of practice open to the media
I also noticed Lardarius Webb was taking a few more punt return reps. That could just mean that Chris Carr took more after I left practice. But I thought I would pass it along.

12:57-I think what jumped out most about this morning’s podium and locker room session was the recognition players made about their status as the #1 team in power rankings released by national media outlets like ESPN and SI. What makes it interesting is how it appears as though John Harbaugh is trying to use it as a motivating ploy.

Both Todd Heap and Ray Lewis mentioned that the team had been made aware that they were ranked 20th in the (ESPN) poll at this time a season ago; but the team managed to go 11-5 and reach the AFC Championship Game. This means Harbaugh is both trying to downplay the significance of the ranking for the Ravens and ALSO convince his team that the Browns (power ranked 29th by ESPN) are much better than they are perceived to be.

Heap on how much the ranking means: “not much, especially at this point in the season.”
Heap on the Browns being ranked 29th: “We believe they’re a lot better than that.”
Mason on the ranking: “That’s the NFL, one week you’re winning and everyone loves you; (then) you’re losing and everyone hates you.”

I’m headed out to watch practice right now; I’ll be back with more shortly.

11:12-Brady Quinn is scheduled for a teleconference around 2:30 this afternoon; in the meantime we’re expected to hear from John Harbaugh and several Ravens players (Ray Lewis included). I’ll be back with more when we get out of the locker room.

10:55-Greetings from 1 Winning Drive, where the Ravens begin prep for their game with the Cleveland Browns Sunday. Eric Mangini is meeting with the Baltimore media right now, here are the highlights:

-on the ’96 season he spent with the Ravens: “I have a lot of great memories”; including meeting his wife, drafting Jonathan Ogden and Ray Lewis, and getting stuck in the Memorial Stadium elevator during the game against the Patriots. “Baltimore is a special place.”
-on Browns’ 0-2 start: mistakes are “very correctable” but margin for errors “is very very small” against teams like Baltimore
-on Ray Lewis: “He’s passionate…..has an incredible work ethic…..has great instincts……plays faster than he is… a natural leader from Day 1.”
-on Browns’ fine system: “I have no interest in taking players’ money.”
-on Ravens: “I think (they are) a balanced team… big plays come now from the offense and specials, not just the defense.”
-on Ed Reed: He can “ruin games in a heartbeat.”
-on DC Rob Ryan: He “is a creative guy”, “similar to Rex (Ryan)”, “great with the players.”

-G

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7:31-It wasn’t pretty, but it is a WIN. 2-0. Thank God. Hit the Purple Haze and I’ll have a column up later tonight.

7:30-SOMEONE JUST CLINCHED THE NUMBER 1 SPOT ON THIS WEEK’S TUESDAY TOP 7!!!!!!!!!

7:29-One stop. Then let’s go home. PLEASE.

7:28-The Chargers-to me-are more likely to score from the 25 than the 5. It’s weird.

7:26-I have always enjoyed Brandon Manumaleuna’s name. I do not enjoy him making catches in the final 2 minutes.

I DID enjoy that play by Frank Walker though.

7:24-Well, at least I haven’t lost 50 pounds of sweat or anything.

7:23-JESUS.

7:20-Hauschka with the big boot on the road, now the Ravens defense can’t flinch…..AGAIN. Phillip Rivers just did this 6 days ago…..

7:19-I’m well aware that the Bears beat the Steelers and the Ravens have a chance to move into 1st place in the AFC North. But thank everyone for reminding me. It’s Week 2. I’m more worried about getting a MAJOR win on the road.

Steve Hauschka could get the chance to make a big kick here.

7:18-Is Dick Enberg aware that 2 plus 7 equals 9?

7:17-OH THANK GOD ANTWAN BARNES!!!!!

Now they need to put this in here.

7:16-383 yards passing for Rivers. Wow.

7:15-THANK YOU DOM FOR MAKING A PLAY THERE!

7:13-They CANNOT sit back in prevent defense here. Of course, they’ve basically been doing that all game, so why would anything change now?

7:10-When you’re trying to grind the clock, Le’Ron McClain is usually a better option than Willis McGahee. But as long as McGahee stays inbounds. And it’s nice to see Mark Clayton IS in Southern California. Of course, it was nicer when he was catching the ball than when he was dropping it.

7:04-Thank God Fabian is moving. That didn’t look so good there for a second. If you’re Norv Turner, are you going for it here? I’m at least thinking about it. The Ravens know how to grind a game away on the ground.

7:00-I repeat, it is NOT EASY to go across the country and beat teams on the road. This is more difficult than it could have been though.

6:57-Trying to be a level-headed analyst; if a team throws the ball 100 times, they’re going to have success. They must be punished for the number of passes they throw will devastating hits. The Ravens have NOT punished Phillip Rivers enough today.

6:54-The 4th quarter of a 1 possession game is not necessarily the time for trick plays. By not gaining much of anything, the Chargers were able to send Merriman and get that pick from Cason.

ARGH.

6:51-Michael Oher finally flinches. He had been off to a HELL of a start to his NFL career. That was rough. Dan Fouts says “blame the officials” for Oher’s jump.

DICK ENBERG IS STILL WATCHING ANOTHER GAME.

Let’s not forget that as frustrated as we want to be with the pass defense, the Chargers are a good passing team (very good team overall) playing at home and trying VERY hard.

6:48-At least they can still stop the run…….

6:43-It looked like Mike Tolbert was checking to make sure Chris Carr was still alive after he hit him. Crushing.

6:41-Should I be the one to ask what’s going on with Frank Walker? And spare me the “He can’t play” stuff.

6:39-Holy crap. In triple coverage. The Ravens’ secondary has been a MAJOR issue. Wow.

6:35-Via Twitter, Nestor Aparicio (in San Diego) says Domonique Foxworth “is no McAlister.” Which only reminds me that NO ONE ELSE is either. Chris McAlister was REALLY good. I mean, REALLY good.

6:33-Phillip Rivers looks like the type of quarterback who is easily rattled and clearly flustered when things aren’t going his way. If the Chargers are going to have any chance of climbing back, he will have to get his head back in the game.

6:29-Tough break for Hauschka and the Ravens there. Looked like a really good kick, but it probably would have gone out of bounds had Sproles not caught it.

6:24-Now Forrester is going to be un-addressable. He said Todd Heap would catch a TD today, and look at that. Ravens up 12; which makes my 3 point SD win in OT pick look pretty stupid.

6:22-Phillip Rivers: If you try to throw the ball to the ground ever time, you are going to get picked. Thankfully Dawan Landry was there this time. Nothing funnier than watching a TERRIBLE decision by the man who could never beat Maryland when he was at North Carolina State.

6:19-Chris Chester has played well again this week after playing well last week against KC. Of course, so has Ben Grubbs; but we just expect that.

6:16-You’re supposed to do better than that when you get 2nd chances. Disappointing. Meanwhile, Prescott Burgess made another nice Special Teams play. Those things helped him stay on the 53 man roster, and help him stay off the scratch list every week.

6:13-Sam Koch just got a gift from the officials and Larry English. A gift he will GLADLY take. Chargers D has been tough early on in the 2nd half.

5:57-I’m going to have another Blue Moon and hope the Ravens can figure out a way to stop the big plays. A win in San Diego would be a win no matter how it came; but this hasn’t been a picture of perfection thus far.

5:54-After Haruki Nakamura nearly sacked Phillip Rivers, I understand Norv Turner’s concern; but just forfeiting an offensive play makes little sense to me given the fact that they were having success throwing the ball on the Ravens. This was the end of the first half, not the end of the game.

5:51-Is Dick Enberg watching another game? Dick, I love you; but maybe the time away doing the U.S. Open didn’t exactly keep you sharp for the start of football season.

5:46-To those who are saying that maybe NOW the Ravens were better off with Rex Ryan than Greg Mattison; maybe you’re right. This is certainly a different brand of Ravens football than we’re used to.

I didn’t see Trevor Pryce’s late hit there. Was it bad?

DID DICK ENBERG JUST CALL PHILLIP RIVERS A HALL OF FAME QUARTERBACK?!?!?!?!

5:44-ABSOLUTELY the right decision by Norv Turner to go for it here. Field goal at questionable length; and they wouldn’t leave the Ravens much time to hurt them the other way.

Did John Harbaugh just try to “ice” an offense? Interesting.

5:39-Was that “The Squirrel” from Kelley Washington? I certainly enjoyed it, but didn’t necessarily enjoy the backpedaling. I know he was wide open, but get in the endzone BEFORE the celebration. The celebration was fine though.

Did I mention that Darren Sproles should have a nickname? Jerry Rosburg can’t be happy.

5:38-Why would the Ravens be playing for a Field Goal right now? Why wouldn’t they be playing to get 6? Don’t think I agree, Dick Enberg.

5:32-Nate Kaeding doesn’t miss many long field goals, he certainly won’t miss many chip shots.

Remember how the Ravens were incorporating Mark Clayton and Kelley Washington into the offense last week? That was fun.

5:29-Dick Enberg: Love you, but there’s no reason for you to tell us that Ray Lewis’ middle name is Anthony. It isn’t interesting, and it doesn’t make you a better broadcaster. Some real information would be worthwhile. Thanks.

5:25-Does Darren Sproles have a nickname? He should.

And I don’t think Fabian Washington had any argument there to say that Domonique Foxworth earned an offensive interference.

Antonio Gates with another big play, huh? Well; nothing but good today………

5:23-Joe has overthrown his receivers a bit today. He did that last week too. It’s okay as long as he isn’t getting picked and the Ravens are winning.

5:16-Good job by Terrell Suggs and Jarret Johnson to make sure they didn’t give up on the penetration Ray Lewis got on that play. As I said to Eric Aaronson today on “Section 410”, Phillip Rivers will use “The 5 D’s of Dodgeball: Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive, and Dodge” to avoid tacklers. The Ravens must make sure they bring him down.

Hell of a punt by Scifres there, too.

5:13-Dangerous but TOTALLY necessary tackle by Brendon Ayanbadejo there on the Sproles return.

Also-Legedu Naanee was probably just as well to run out of bounds there. The Chargers are going to continue to take shots downfield (like the one they just tried to Chris Chambers) until the Ravens toughen up in coverage.

Attention Dawan Landry: PLEASE don’t take out Ed Reed. Thanks.

5:07-I know Kevin Burnett bailed them out there, but that was a DANGEROUS ball for Flacco to throw to Todd Heap there. Wow.

You think every time Ray Rice sees Willis McGahee plunge in for a TD he thinks to himself “That must be fun.”

Also, a note to Steve Hauschka. Extra points don’t help me in Fantasy Football. I appreciate this offense scoring TD’s, but I could use a 54 yarder from you. Thanks.

5:03-Other than the pass in the flats to Derrick Mason, have the Ravens completed a pass to a Wide Receiver? I guess Cam Cameron is thinking “They don’t have any D-Linemen, why WOULD we throw the football?”

5:00-Calm down Chargers fans; Jacques Cesaire is okay!!!!

What a catch by Ray Rice on 3rd down. You just want the ball in his hands.

4:55-I’m confused. Does Chris Carr WANT to be this team’s returner? I mean, if he doesn’t; shouldn’t he just let John Harbaugh and Ozzie Newsome know?

The only good thing about Justin Bannan getting banged up is the fact that the Ravens are very deep on the D-Line. Unlike the Chargers-who now have a group that might as well include Little Ethan playing opposite Oher, Gaither, and company.

4:52-Dawan Landry did a nice job there of trying to strip the ball before Phillip Rivers hit the ground.

Kaeding, Scifres, and Sproles give the Chargers a VERY dangerous Special Teams bunch. Jerry Rosburg has his work cut out for him.

Good to keep the Chargers from getting into the endzone there after getting into the red zone.

4:50-14 straight games with a sack for the Ravens, as pointed out by CBS’ graphics department. With Nick Hardwick and Louis Vasquez out, Haloti Ngata should be able to get up the middle.

4:48-Well. Michael Bennett on the ground; then Malcolm Floyd abusing a 1-on-1 matchup with Malcolm Floyd. As I said, they’ll use the run to set up the downfield pass.

4:45-Not smart from Matt “Jack Hunter” Lawrence. For a guy who’s only on the roster for Special Teams, it probably isn’t good to ever have an official describe something you did as “totally unnecessary.”

4:41-What a statement drive Willis McGahee just capped off. “You don’t have any D-Linemen? Think we’ll just shove the ball down your throat.”

4:36-Darren Sproles and Ray Rice are SO similar. Eerie.

4:33-By the way Forrester, it’s a good thing you bought me a Jay-Z ticket, because the Orioles are DEFINITELY going to be swept again. I’ll save you having to purchase me 5 more Chinese lunches….

4:31-How many 99 yard drives have the Ravens ever given up? I don’t have a media guide in front of me. What a disaster.

4:27-Is there a quarterback in the NFL that throws the ball into the ground more than PhiLLLLip? Of course, when Darren Sproles is hauling in 81 yard TD passes, it doesn’t much matter. Christ.

4:26-You can’t allow Vincent Jackson to get a 1st down there. Phillip Rivers was willing to check down, and the Ravens should have been there to contain it.

4:23-Lardarius Webb apparently wants to make this week’s “Tuesday Top 7.” That’s the type of play you make when you’re trying to help your team win a game. Kelley Washington can dance all he wants, but that was all on the rookie out of Nicholls State.

4:21-Earlier in the preseason, Matt Birk and Joe Flacco had some communication issues on snaps. It had been weeks since I had seen something like that. This could have something to do with the noise. The Ravens were working with speakers pumping in noise this week in Owings Mills.

4:19-Was anyone else confused by the fact that no Chargers defender attempted to down that ball as it was rolling backwards towards midfield? Ummm……..thanks?

4:17-The heat could make guys a bit more “chippy” today. Also, the Chargers know they need to establish Sproles in order to be able to open up the rest of the field. No luck so far.

4:15-Dick Enberg and Dan Fouts on the call today on CBS. I know Dan Fouts is a Hall of Fame Chargers QB, but I expect him to be completely fair today. Seriously.

4:06-Rex Ryan is about to turn into the most impossible person to talk to. His ego will be the size of the Statue of Liberty after this one. You know he expects a parade through Manhattan, right?

3:49-Remember when MLB was considering a move to get rid of the Twins and Expos? I think the Redskins and Rams would be good choices for the NFL to consider doing the same thing with. Jesus. Thanks FOX for considering Baltimore as a secondary market to that football craphole that is the District of Columbia.

3:29-One more note: The 3rd quarterbacks for today’s game (these are also scratches) are John Beck and Charlie Whitehurst.

Also, DT Jamal Williams (triceps) was placed on IR last night, activating DE Andre Coleman from the practice squad. Ogemdi Nwagbuo is expected to start in Williams’ place.

2:43-Quick Chargers/Ravens history lesson. The Ravens are 3-3 all-time against the Bolts; but just 1-3 at “The Murph.” The Chargers pummeled the Ravens 32-14 in their most recent matchup (11/25/07) just weeks before Brian Billick was fired. The Ravens are 2-0 against the Chargers in Baltimore.

The Ravens come into today’s game off a “closer than it looks” 38-24 win over the Chiefs in Week 1, the Chargers rallied in the final moments to beat the Raiders 24-20 on Monday Night Football to start the season 1-0.

1:48-We’re still 2+ hours from kickoff today at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, but I’m going to open this up a little bit early today. We’re going to make some small changes in how we do this moving forward, as this blog will be less of me explaining what just happened (as I know you’re watching the game anyway), and more about offering a place for everyone to provide their own analysis. I’ll still be providing plenty of my own, for the record.

The Ravens and Chargers each come into today’s game 1-0, but the similarities don’t end there. The teams are similar in their young QB’s, their running style, their outside linebackers, and their defensive backs who work better as a unit than individually.

I’ll have plenty more to preview as we go forward towards 4:15 (and I scream at my computer every minute my fantasy football team isn’t getting points from Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald), but please feel free to chime in with your own thoughts, score predictions, etc.

-G

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4:42-One more note, as we just received the game notes for Sunday’s contest. Dick Enberg and Dan Fouts (a Hall of Fame Chargers QB) will have the call of the game for CBS. Kevin Kulger and Mark Malone will have the national radio call via Westwood One.

4:23-I think the most significant thing to come from John Harbaugh’s press conference was the news that the Ravens will be traveling to San Diego on Friday; a day earlier than usual.

This will present the always troublesome scenario that the Ravens could be distracted by spending the weekend in the shadow of the Pacific Ocean; so the team will have to be responsible for respecting their players like men while ALSO trying to keep them from getting themselves in trouble. Brian Billick always gave players just enough of a leash to hang themselves with. Chris McAlister was the only one who ever really took advantage of it. This will be John Harbaugh’s first trip to the opposite coast as a Head Coach, so it will be interesting to see how he handles discipline for his guys.

The Ravens will be off tomorrow, but will be back out here at 1 Winning Drive Wednesday. They will use tomorrow to watch film from tonight’s Raiders-Chargers game in order to prepare a gameplan. I will host a Q&A tomorrow for any Ravens related questions you might have after Week 1.

4:21 Earlier today it was announced that Ravens center Matt Birk would donate his brain for scientific research following his death. This will allow his brain to be studied regarding concussions and general brain injuries of football players. Here is the press release:

Matt Birk, Lofa Tatupu, Sean Morey First Active NFL Players to Donate

(BOSTON) – The Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy (CSTE) at Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) announced today that three active National Football League Pro Bowl players have pledged to join the CSTE Brain Donation Registry. The players include: Matt Birk, Baltimore Ravens; Lofa Tatupu, Seattle Seahawks; and Sean Morey, Arizona Cardinals. These players have decided to donate their brain and spinal cord tissue to the CSTE upon death so that researchers can better understand the effects of trauma on the brain and spinal cord.

Brain trauma in sports is increasingly seen as a health crisis due to the discovery of a neurodegenerative disease called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) in a number of recently deceased athletes. Over the past several years, CTE was found in ten deceased athletes including professional football players, boxers, a professional wrestler, and an 18 year-old high school athlete. Only one athlete tested for CTE during that time did not have the disease.

Robert Cantu, MD, a leading sports concussion expert and clinical professor of neurosurgery at BUSM said, “CTE is the only fully preventable cause of dementia. By studying large numbers of athletes throughout their lives, as well as examining brain tissue through our expanding CSTE brain bank, we will be able to determine the specific risk factors for CTE and potentially develop effective treatments. The research will foster education and allow meaningful guidelines to be implemented at all levels of athletic participation.”

The co-directors of the BUSM CSTE include Cantu, Chris Nowinski, Ann McKee, MD, and Robert Stern, PhD. They published research findings on CTE in athletes in the July issue of the Journal of Neuropathology and Experimental Neurology (2009, vol.68¸ pp. 709-735). McKee also recently presented these findings to the NFL Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Committee and NFL Players Association.

Birk, Tatupu, and Morey are the first active NFL players to join more than 150 former athletes, including 40 retired NFL players, in the CSTE Brain Donation Registry. Through enrolling in the C.O.N.T.A.C.T. research program (Consent to Offer Neural Tissue of Athletes with Concussive Trauma), these athletes will be interviewed annually by phone throughout their lives and, upon death, their brain tissue will be examined by the CSTE. This prospective approach with allow the researchers to examine the relationship between clinical symptoms and pathology for the first time

Arizona Cardinals receiver and special teams player Sean Morey said, “As an active NFL player, I believe it is critical to support all the research being done to better understand the potential long term risks associated with brain injuries in the NFL and football at all levels. One of the most profound actions I can take personally is to donate my brain to help ensure the safety and welfare of active, retired, and future athletes for decades to come.”

According to Baltimore Ravens star center Matt Birk, “The science is clear that CTE is a threat to the health and well-being of all contact sports athletes. I would like to do my part to raise awareness and help the research advance toward treatment and an eventual cure.” Birk, who is also making a financial contribution to the non-profit Sports Legacy Institute (SLI), went on to say, “I consider my financial donation to be an investment in my future, the future of my friends that have played football with me, and the future of all of those children playing the game today.”

CSTE’s research reveals that the need for concussion education for youth sports is more urgent than ever. In June, Oregon became the first state to mandate concussion education for youth sports coaches, passing “Max’s Law”, a bill requiring coaches to be trained annually to recognize concussion symptoms and provide appropriate medical treatment. On Tuesday, September 15 a similar bill will be heard by the Joint Committee on Public Health in the Massachusetts State Legislature. Senate bill 796, sponsored by Senator Steven Baddour, mandates a sports concussion safety program for coaches, trainers, and volunteers for schools in the Commonwealth. CSTE’s Cantu and Nowinski will be testifying at Tuesday’s hearing.

Referring to today’s announcement by Birk, Tatupu, and Morey, SLI co-founder and president, Nowinski said, “These active NFL players have admirably ignored concerns held by many athletes that by participating in this research, they could be perceived as having a concussion history that could negatively affect their career and contract negotiations.”

CTE, originally referred to as “dementia pugilistica” because it was believed to only affect boxers, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by repetitive trauma to the brain. It is characterized by the build-up of a toxic protein called tau in the form of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and neuropil threads (NTs) throughout the brain. The abnormal protein initially impairs the normal functioning of the brain and eventually kills brain cells. Early on, CTE sufferers may display clinical symptoms such as memory impairment, emotional instability, erratic behavior, depression and problems with impulse control. However, CTE eventually progresses to full-blown dementia. Although similar to Alzheimer’s disease, CTE is an entirely distinct disease.

Matt Birk was voted into six Pro Bowls at center during his 11 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. A Harvard graduate, Birk signed with the Baltimore Ravens in 2009 and is expected to start at center this season.

Lofa Tatupu was voted into the Pro Bowl in his first three seasons in the NFL, one of only two Seattle Seahawks ever to earn the prestigious honor. The former USC star is entering his fifth season with the Seahawks as one of the top linebackers in football.

Sean Morey was recently voted into his first Pro Bowl in 2008 as a Special Teams Player with the Arizona Cardinals. The Brown University honors graduate and Superbowl XL Champion is entering his tenth season in the NFL. He is also a member of the NFL Players Association’s Player Safety and Welfare Committee.

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The CSTE was created in 2008 as a collaborative venture between Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) and Sports Legacy Institute (SLI). The mission of the CSTE is to conduct state-of-the-art research of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, including its neuropathology and pathogenesis, the clinical presentation and course, the genetics and other risk factors for CTE, and ways of preventing and treating this cause of dementia.

Sports Legacy Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation founded in 2007 to solve the sports concussion crisis. SLI is dedicated to education, prevention, treatment, and research on the effects of concussions and other brain injuries in athletes and the military. SLI partnered with Boston University School of Medicine to form the Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy in 2008.

4:04-Todd Heap is now addressing the media. Here are the highlights.

-“The fans appreciated” big offensive production
-“We’ve got guys who are capable” of putting up big numbers offensively.
-“Any time an offense plays 90 plays…..they’re usually attacking.”
-“All the guys on the offense liked” no-huddle offense.
-“I’ve always had pretty high expectations of myself. When there’s a play to be made, I want to be the guy to make that play.”

3:45-John Harbaugh is meeting with the media right now. Here are the highlights.

-“I don’t know if it’s an advantage or a disadvantage” to get San Diego on a short week.
-Special teams issues “very identifiable, very easily corrected”
-“Across the board, there were so many good things” on offense, defense, and special teams in win over Chiefs.
-Rex Ryan “is doing just fine without us.”
-Michael Oher “played really well, but there’s a lot of things he can do better.”
-Zbikowski “should be fine, just a matter of his head clearing up.”
-Gooden “just a mild sprain”, having an MRI
-“Hopeful” about LJ Smith playing against Chargers
-“I’m really excited about the opportunity we had” to rally in the 4th quarter against Kansas City
-Ravens will travel to San Diego Friday to try to get accustomed to time change; will practice Saturday at San Diego State
-Justin Bannan said “you have to play every game like it’s a play to win the game.”
-Chargers “one of the premiere teams in the NFL.”
-“We like to play with a certain edge…..that’s how our guys play.” “you start calling our guys names, we’re not too impressed by that. They can keep saying these things all they want.” (All regarding comments from ESPN’s Cris Carter & Keyshawn Johnson that fired up Derrick Mason and company before Sunday’s game.)

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